Volvo CE drive first all-electric demolition at Siemens site
Zero-emission construction machines tackle complex demolition in landmark sustainable project
A FLEET of all-electric machines from Volvo CE and Volvo Trucks has completed the world’s first fully electric deconstruction site in Erlangen, Germany, in partnership with Siemens and Metzner Recycling. The initiative, part of Siemens’ €500 million Technology Campus development, marks a pivotal step in advancing sustainable urban transformation and circular construction practices.
In collaboration with demolition specialists Metzner Recycling, Volvo CE deployed a fleet of fully electric construction machines – from compact and mid-size models to grid-connected equipment – to carry out high-performance demolition across a 25,000 sq m site.
Electric trucks from Volvo Trucks supported material transport, enabling fully emission-free operations from selective gutting through to concrete crushing, processing, and logistics. The project eliminates reliance on fossil fuels, significantly cuts CO₂ emissions, reduces harmful pollutants, and lowers noise impacts in urban areas.
According to Volvo CE, this full-scale electric deconstruction serves as proof of a concept that sustainable, circular construction is achievable today when the right technology, partners, and ambition are combined.
The electric machines from the Swedish OEM giant handled both demolition and materials processing, sorting approximately 12,800 tons of construction waste, 96% of which was recycled into raw materials for future use.
Therese Schmitz-Hillebrecht, head of market area central Europe at Volvo CE, said the project demonstrates that sustainable, circular construction is achievable today with the right technology and partnerships.
She commented: ‘Our transformation is no longer a vision, but a reality. We don’t just develop electric construction machines – we accompany our partners on the path to an emission-free future. The fact that companies like Metzner and Siemens are joining us on this path is a strong sign.’
Christian Franz, head of Sustainability at Siemens Real Estate, added: ‘This groundbreaking electric deconstruction project boasts an impressive 96% recycling rate and is a testament to our commitment to achieving excellence in sustainability. Through strong collaboration and innovative thinking, the team has achieved exceptional results that directly support our ambitious sustainability targets.’
The project also showcases a new model of cross-sector collaboration, bringing together OEMs, contractors, real estate stakeholders, and energy providers to drive sustainable construction forward.
As cities face increasing regulatory and environmental pressures, the Siemens development proves that quiet, clean, and circular deconstruction is achievable today.
Michael Metzner, managing director of Metzner Recycling, said: ‘Taking the first major step towards an all-electric, low-emission dismantling site as a technical standard is a huge success for our team and our clients. Electric equipment could unlock urban projects previously limited by noise and pollution concerns.’
